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Top Five Back-to-School Foods

Aug 28th 2013

It’s back-to-school season, and that means it’s time for to-go lunches, easy-to-carry snacks and energizing drinks. With so many different options on the market, there are products that may look healthy but really aren’t.

To help you make your life a little easier, I did my research and created my top five back-to-school foods. Rest assured, these items are healthy and delicious, so that you don’t have to settle for less.

1. Energizing Drinks

If you are running out the door with no time for breakfast, reach for a Vega protein smoothie pack. It’s already portioned out into serving-sized packets, so all you have to do is mix one with your favorite nut milk or with plain water, shake and drink. For a mere 105 calories, you get 11 grams of protein, seven grams of fiber and a great taste. My favorite ones are Bodacious Berry and Choc-A-Lot.

2. A New Kind Of Nut Butter

If your kid is a picky eater or you happen to be a picky adult, then try a new kind of nut butter sandwich. Instead of having the same ol’ peanut butter, try Justin’s Chocolate Hazelnut Butter on your sandwich. This creamy spread is 100% percent vegan and gluten-free and 100 percent delicious. Pair it up with some dried apricots or banana slices, and you’ve got yourself a delicious dessert-like meal. Z-tip: Get this nut butter in single-serving packets – they’re great to take with you on-the-go.

3. My Favorite Bread

If you are looking for good sandwich bread, I suggest trying Ezekiel. It’s made with sprouted grains, which means the nucleus of the grain is destroyed and it’s easily digested and absorbed. It’s also organic and high in protein and fiber. Try different varieties like sesame seed and cinnamon raisin. The latter is perfect for easy French toast. But whichever you choose, make sure to toast it first for the best texture and flavor. Check out this bread here, and watch this video for a delicious sandwich idea.

4. Best sandwich “meat”

Let's talk chicken! If you are considering going green, but don’t want to give up chicken, try BeyondMeat Chicken. These amazing protein-packed strips have the same texture and taste as chicken. Because they’re made with plant-protein, they take less time and energy to digest, giving you more energy to spend on other activities. A three-ounce portion is only 130 calories and has 20 grams of protein. Since they’re already cooked, all you have to do is add to your sandwiches and salads or enjoy as a snack just as they are.

5. Best Snack On The Go

To keep yourself or your kids energized in the afternoon, reach for a bag of kale chips. These days you can get one at either Publix, Whole Foods or 4th Generation Organic Market and Cafe. Did you know that kale is the top most nutritious vegetable available? It boasts a plethora of vitamins, blood-purifying chlorophyll, lots of protein and fiber. If you are on a budget and would like to make your own, watch this easy video - kale chips in two minutes!

About Alina Z.

Alina Z., aka “The Green Goddess,” is a certified holistic health coach, detox specialist and raw-food chef (she conducts occasional classes at Whole Foods in Boca). Prior to moving to Florida, Alina hosted her own TV show in Maryland—“Entertaining A to Z”—for people who didn’t have time to cook but wanted to eat healthy. Catch one of her web episodes at eHow.com, visit Alina’s website at alinazhealthcoach.com, or follow her on Facebook (facebook.com/CoutureFood) or Twitter (@CoutureFood). The Green Goddess blog runs every other Wednesday at bocamag.com.